No, it's not like engine breaking (see https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Engine_braking https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Engine_braking for a description of why that w

No, it's not like engine breaking (see https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Engine_braking https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Engine_braking for a description of why that works). https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Thrust_reversal https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Thrust_reversal describes thrust reversal nicely: > On aircraft using jet engines, thrust reversal is accomplished by causing the jet blast to flow forward. The engine does not run or rotate in reverse; instead, thrust reversing devices are used to block the blast and redirect it forward. Take a look at the video of "A target-type thrust reverser being deployed" for an example.